Managing student residences during the Covid-19 pandemic : a public administration perspective at a selected South African tertiary institution

Abstract

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges worldwide, impacting various aspects of society, including students living in university residences. This abstract focuses on exploring the experiences of students residing in a selected tertiary institution in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic. The qualitative study uses interviews and surveys to gather data on how students in their university residence have been affected by the pandemic. Factors such as sudden transition to online learning, social isolation, mental health concerns, and financial pressures are examined to understand the multifaceted impacts of the pandemic on students’ daily lives. Through thematic analysis, common themes emerge that highlight the struggles, resilience, and coping mechanisms of students facing the challenges of the pandemic. The findings shed light on the unique experiences and perspectives of students living in university residences, providing insight for institutions to tailor support services and interventions effectively. The study aims to contribute to the existing literature on the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on tertiary students, with a specific focus on those residing in university accommodations. Recommendations based on the findings seek to guide policy makers, universities, and support services in the implementation of strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of the pandemic on student general well-being and academic success. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data according to the aim and objectives of the study. Since the research is qualitative in nature, data analysis was conducted through inductive thematic analysis. The study found that in fact, the Student Residences had been significantly transformed by the Covid19 pandemic. The operations of the student residences had been forced to change in order to comply with Covid-19 regulations, so that student learning was shifted from face-to-face learning to online learning. This meant more time spent indoors, stricter measures now in place, and student residence policies having been broadened to ensure that they also monitor compliance. The study also noted that even after the pandemic, things will still take time to return to normal. The researcher can conclude that the Covid19 pandemic has had a huge effect on student residences at the selected university and that student should play their roles effectively to ensure that everyone remains safe